Bengaluru tops list in use of extramarital dating apps, survey raises concerns

Bengaluru : The increasing use of dating applications among married individuals in Bengaluru has sparked debate after a survey by Gleeden revealed that the city leads the country in such trends.

The survey indicates that a growing number of married individuals are turning to online platforms to seek companionship outside their marriages. Bengaluru has emerged as the top city, with over 1.35 lakh registered users, particularly among the 30–45 age group.

Researchers attribute this trend to a combination of factors including emotional disconnect in marriages, high-pressure work environments, and the increasing influence of digital culture. Many users reportedly feel that their emotional needs are not being met within their existing relationships, prompting them to explore alternatives online.

Unlike traditional assumptions, the survey suggests that users are not always seeking physical relationships. Instead, a significant portion is looking for emotional bonding and understanding, which they claim is lacking in their personal lives.

The data also reveals that Bengaluru contributes nearly 17% of the app’s Indian user base, underlining its dominance in this segment. Professionals from sectors such as IT, finance, law, and business form a large chunk of the user demographic, reflecting the city’s urban and career-driven lifestyle.

A notable aspect of the study is the rise in women users. Over the past two years, female participation on the platform has increased by 148%, indicating a shift in societal attitudes and the growing independence of women in making personal choices.

The survey also sheds light on the influence of artificial intelligence in relationships. More than half of Bengaluru’s users reportedly engage with AI-based companions, highlighting how technology is redefining emotional connections in modern times.

While metro cities continue to dominate, smaller cities are not far behind. The report notes a steady increase in users from Tier-2 cities, suggesting that the trend is gradually spreading across the country.

Experts caution that such developments could have long-term implications for family structures and social stability. They emphasise the need for open communication and counselling to address underlying issues within relationships rather than seeking external validation.

As technology continues to reshape human interactions, Bengaluru stands at the forefront of this transformation  not just as a tech hub, but also as a city witnessing profound changes in personal and social relationships.